Help with $6k - $7k amplifier setup

Cvt, I would recommend the combo of a Pass LabsX-350.5, which can be bought at a great price as a used/demo piece here on the GON, and Placette passive pre-amp.

I have heard this combination and its sounds wonderful, it would fit your budget, and easily drive your new speakers.

It always comes down to personnal taste and system synergy, but for my ear's the 350.5 and Placette are much better sonicly then the gear you mentioned in your post. If you are interested in more details regarding the 350.5 take a look at a reveiw I posted on it here on the GON.

From everything I've read your speakers love tubes and are easy to drive. I would certainly say go with tubed seperates, there are many great deals on here for amps and preamps. Based on recent ads with your budget I'd pick up a used Herron VTSP-1A for $1700, I own the same pre and absolutely love it, and an Art Audio Diavola for $2800, a beautiful looking and sounding amp and ballsy for the wattage, 18 I think. Those two pieces woould net out to $4500 leaving money left over for cables and more music. Most of all though, whatever you decide have fun!

The TRL D-225 amp for $4000 new is a great amp for the money. You can mate it with a nice passive preamp (I use the K&K Audio TVC) or a low gain active preamp. Either way you should be well within your budget.

For integrated amp option I would consider the Gryphon or Pathos line, for separates within your budget I would try a Conrad Johnson Premier amp with an Axiom Passive preamp or Naim (pre-power).

Fernando